In German
Lehrer
Meaning: teacher
Formal or informal? “Lehrer” is a male teacher, and “Lehrerin” is the female form. In school, pupils often say “Herr” or “Frau” with the teacher's surname.
Example sentences
Mein Vater ist Lehrer.
My father is a teacher.
Die Lehrerin erklärt die Grammatik.
The female teacher explains the grammar.
Der Lehrer kommt um acht Uhr.
The teacher arrives at eight o'clock.
Grammar note
“Der Lehrer” is masculine, so it takes “der” and “ein”. The female form “die Lehrerin” adds -in, and its plural is “die Lehrerinnen”.
Common mistake
Don't say “die Lehrer” for one teacher. The singular is “der Lehrer” or “die Lehrerin”, and “Lehrer” alone is the male form.
Quick check
Which German word means “teacher” (male)?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
What is the female form of “Lehrer”?
“Lehrerin”, with -in.
How do you address a teacher at school in German?
“Herr” or “Frau” followed by the surname, such as “Frau Müller”.